Urgent Pleas for Safety of Iranian Women's Football Team in Australia
Supporters Rally for Iranian Players' Safety
On Sunday, outside their bus in Australia, supporters of Iran's women's football team gathered, urgently asking police to 'save our girls' following the team's loss in the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Eyewitnesses reported that at least three players inside the bus signaled for help using the international SOS gesture, prompting immediate calls for action.
Concerns for Players' Safety
Human rights advocate Hadi Karimi expressed that the players might face severe risks if they are forced to return to Iran. He called on federal police, the Australian government, and the public to intervene swiftly. The team has been in Australia for a week, and worries intensified after they remained silent during the national anthem at their first match.
Growing Calls for Protection
Sources indicated that the players were later pressured to sing the anthem and perform a military salute in subsequent matches, including their final 0-2 defeat against the Philippines. Their initial silent protest was viewed as treason by hardliners in Iran, raising fears of potential persecution.
International Voices Join the Cause
Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's former shah, has also urged Australia to guarantee the players' safety, warning of 'dire consequences' if they return home. He characterized their refusal to sing the anthem as an act of civil disobedience that could endanger them.
Advocacy for Support Systems
Craig Foster, a former Australian international and human rights advocate, emphasized that athlete groups should have access to external support networks. He called on the Asian Football Confederation to provide the players with confidential access to safe support systems.
Travel and Security Concerns
The ongoing tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel have complicated travel across the Middle East. Supporters are worried that the players might be sent to a third country, such as China, Russia, or Malaysia, before being returned to Iran.
FIFPRO's Concern for Players
Beau Busch, President of FIFPRO Asia/Oceania, stated that his organization has been unable to reach the team, describing the situation as 'incredibly concerning.' He stressed the importance of ensuring the players' safety.
Government's Stance
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong refrained from commenting on whether officials had contacted the team but reiterated support for Iranian women and girls, highlighting the regime's history of violent crackdowns.
Coach's Desire for Family
At a post-match press conference, coach Marziyeh Jafari expressed her wish to return home to be with her family. Meanwhile, Karimi and other supporters continued to keep watch over the team's hotel, urging authorities to ensure the players are separated from regime officials and interviewed privately.